Need software industry in Bengal: Pitroda

Kolkata, Aug 22 (IANS) Sam Pitroda, advisor to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Thursday said it is necessary to introduce software industry in West Bengal which has much ground to cover in terms of technological advancement.

"I think we really need to focus on broadband connectivity with panchayats... effective use of knowledge network... we need to build more human capacity in software... need to bring software industry to West Bengal. There's a lots to be done," said Pitroda on the sidelines of the first convocation of Presidency University.

The advisor to the prime minister on public information infrastructure and innovations addressed the gathering as the chief guest.

The college's foreign alumni, distinguished students and luminaries were present as degrees were awarded to 340 post-graduate students.

Pitroda, known for heralding the telecom revolution in India, lauded the efforts of the PMG that was set up by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to contribute to the progress of the university.

"The mentor group has done tremendous job in just about two years. They have a good faculty. I wish they would pay a little attention to technology. If they ask for it (technological help), I would be happy to do it," said Pitroda adding that e-classes should be started in Presidency.

Speaking on reservation of seats in educational institutes, he said: "It is the Supreme Court which decides... respect it... and move on."